As a newb, I also have way more questions than time to even list them all, but something's this has me curious.

On a rookie, is his current rating more important (as it relates to his position) or his potential rating?

Here's an example: Position Curr Fut
LDE 40 85
RDE 56 84
DT 35 82

Would it be better to try and "coach" him up as a LDE? Or keep him at the RDE? Could a player EVER reach his best potential from the DT position (for example)

Does the MORE playing time in Pre-season effect the "actual" ratings? And if so, shouldn't rookies have the majority of game time?

RDE versus LDE is pretty much going to be the same and the current rating is usually only different because they have different levels of position experience (which is usually maxed out in 5-6 games). The biggest thing is finding guys that match the skills and physical attributes that you want for each position. For example, I like DEs that are at least 6'3 and preferable 6'4 plus, I also need them to be very fast and strong. Weight is also a consideration, a player may eventually reach the ideal weight but if you think you're going to turn a DT into a CB because of the skill set you may be waiting several seasons for that player to hit the ideal weight.

Current only matters for how they would perform right now, but your main consideration when drafting rookies should be on future potential and then if you have a couple guys that are really close or virtually identical then you would consider current. Basically the higher their current rating is the lower the chance that they are going to lose a lot of future potential in training camp.

I'd say it also depends on where you have needs on your roster. That guy can be a quality starter for you anywhere on the D Line, so factor in where you need help as well as what he's good at.

Don't put too much stock in overall rating...that's a good short hand, but look at individual skill ratings to determine where he's best suited to play.

Personally with his high pass rush and good speed, I'd play him at DE. But your D line is pretty old, so having him play anywhere will work.